Today,
the chemical peel is a widely-accepted procedure
to eradicate fine wrinkles in the skin. It is more
effective than dermabrasion. The procedure can be
performed alone or at a later date after face lift
or eyelid surgery.
Patients
with fair complexions are better candidates as the
chemical peel can remove pigment from the skin creating
a line of demarcation between the treated and untreated
skin in patients with darker complexions.
The
chemical peel creates a raw surface which heals in
approximately ten days. Once healed, makeup can be
applied. The peeled skin is initially red and rapidly
fades to pink. This pink color may last for several
months. Care must be taken to protect this skin from
sun exposure by using a sun screen for at least six
months.
Light
chemical peels can be performed in the office. Deeper
or full face peels are performed on an outpatient
basis in a surgical center.
